Two Years ago today...

Two years ago today, I was waking up smelling a little like barf and looking only mildly more appealing. Two years ago today, I sat in a hotel room with my Mom, my Dad and my Brother, a family of four for the last time. Two years ago today, I sat in a chair for what seemed like forever, while some crazy lady, curled, teased, sprayed, teased again and set my hair. All the while consuming a Raspberry Rapture from Booster Juice. Two years ago today, I forgot to shave my pits and had to sit in a tub with my Mom holding my veil and try desperatly trying to get rid of my "forest of doom". Two years ago today, I was a bride - and I have the panties to prove it (they say BRIDE). Two years ago today, I tripped walking up the aisle with my new husband and was as "graceful" as ever. Two years ago today, I said goodbye to Ashley Gartner and Hello to Ashley Stone. Two years ago today, I said I do and my world changed.

It's hard to believe that two years ago Corey and I got married. Some days it feels as though we've just met and other days it feels as if he's always been there. It's been two years since I've had to answer single on a survey or called someone my fiance. I forget what it's like to sleep alone, or only cook supper for one (which generally meant, salad). I couldn't imagine, not seeing Corey's face when I wake up or feel his strong arms hold me when I'm sad. I don't remember what it's like to long for love because it's been here for so long and yet there is something in me that knows taking it for granted is a risk that could cause it to be lost and I know that I NEVER want to lose Corey's love.

We've come so far in two years. We've moved away from the friends, the family and the place we called home - to a new home, with more family and other friends. We have a beautiful daughter, that with each day teaches us something new, about life, her, each other.... We've learned that being Bethany's parents are our primary jobs but my being Corey's wife and his being my husband are still very valuable titles that require attention and maintence. I've learned that Corey really does hate peas, loves chocolate, thinks mud on his truck is cool but mud on his clothes is NOT cool. I've learned to cook carrots the way his Mom did (with butter and brown sugar, yum!) and that loud, big, old trucks make him happy - even when I'd prefer something newer, quieter and maybe a little shiny? Corey's learned that I need to be protected, that sometimes ketchup on Caeser salad is what tastes good to me and that I really, really hate when he wipes his nose on his sleeve.

The biggest lesson we've both learned is that God really IS in control! We surrendered our lives into his hands two years ago today and although the ride hasn't always been smooth, the road has been straight and the vehicle sturdy. He proves his love and faithfulness to our little family, but more importantly to our marriage on a daily basis - even though He doesn't have to.

Two years ago today, I kissed my husband for the first time. Two years ago today, I started the next step in the journey of my life, and for the first time I wasn't alone. Two years ago today, I had no clue that I'd love Corey more with each breath or that life - our lives, could be so good.

Happy Anniversary Corey-Bear, I love you!